Congratulations to Dave & Prue on their endorsement.
26 July 2026
Congratulations to Dave & Prue on their endorsement.
With our state candidates endorsed, Voices of Deakin will enter a period of hiatus from 3 August to 1 December.
Limited activities will continue solely in relation to our community survey for the federal electorate of Deakin.
Voices of Deakin
From our community, for our community
Voices of Deakin is a community-led group of local residents putting people back at the heart of democracy.
We believe democracy works best when local voices are heard and representatives act with integrity, free from party politics, donors, and lobbyists.
We listen to our community, to understand local values and priorities, so we can provide a values-aligned independent choice for voters at federal and state elections.
What matters most in our community?
We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, as the Traditional Owners of the land we live and work on in the Deakin electorate.
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We recognise their enduring, continued connection to land, sea, sky and community, and acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to the courage, wisdom and resilience of Elders past, present and emerging.
2026 Victorian election
Voices of Deakin is thrilled to endorse two Community Independent Candidates for this year's Victorian election: David Vanderwolf for Croydon district and Prue Cutts for Ringwood District.
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Both candidates demonstrated their keenness to represent our community with integrity, and through evidence-based, 'community first' decision making. Learn about our search and endorsement process.
David Vanderwolf – Independent for Croydon
“I’m standing for Croydon to provide locals with a genuine alternative to party politics.
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We are all tired of being ignored and overpowered by the influence of vested interests. I want to ensure our voice is heard and that every member of our community feels a part of this conversation.
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We need to tackle the things that drive our household costs up, protect the beautiful natural environment unique to this area, ensure our communities are safe and our schools are properly resourced. When important decisions need to be made, my community is my party room, and conversations will begin with the people of Croydon.”
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Croydon district comprises Croydon, Croydon South, Croydon North and Croydon Hills, as well as parts of Wonga Park, Mooroolbark, Kilsyth, Kilsyth South and Bayswater North.
Prue Cutts – Independent for Ringwood
“I don’t just know the Ringwood electorate - I’ve lived it.
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I've lived, worked and raised my family in this community for over 35 years, and my ten years serving as a Whitehorse City Councillor – twice as Deputy Mayor - has given me a strong understanding of the issues that matter to local people.
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People want practical solutions to challenges such as the cost of living, housing affordability, healthcare, education and community safety, and they want a representative who will genuinely listen.”
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Ringwood district comprises Mitcham, Nunawading, Ringwood, Ringwood East and Heathmont, as well as parts of Blackburn, Blackburn North, Donvale, Forest Hill and Vermont.
Listening to the community
The success of the 'Voices' movement has shown democracy can be done differently – and done better!
Part of the Community Independents Project, we look to identify values-aligned, community-backed independent candidates in the federal electorate of Deakin and the state districts of Croydon and Ringwood.
We do this by listening. Through surveys, community conversations, and talking with the community at events and around the electorate, we are engaging with people across Deakin to understand their priorities, concerns and hopes for the future.​
The direction we take is grounded in what matters most to our community.
Voices of Deakin Surveys
To help us better understand the shared values of Deakin residents, please complete our survey.
Community Conversations
Register to attend one of our Community Conversations, or better yet host one!. You will get to meet some locals, chat over refreshments and have some fun!
Events
Check-in from time-to-time to see what's planned or sign up to be kept updated.